Principal’s Update – February 13, 2026

Dear Families and Caregivers,

 

Today our 5th graders had the exciting opportunity to attend a live performance by Cirque Kalabante at Morristown Performing Arts Center. Afrique en Cirque showcases the beauty and artistry of African culture, inspired by daily life in Guinea. Through vibrant costumes, dynamic staging, and gravity-defying acrobatics set to live Afro-Jazz, percussion, and kora music, students experienced a joyful celebration of strength, agility, and the everyday lives of young Africans.

 

Here’s what some of our students had to say:

“It was really cool and intense to watch.”

“The stunts were unbelievable.”

“The contortionist had no spine!”

“Exciting and tough.”

“Ms. Kuwabara, you have to come with us next year!”

 

We are grateful for opportunities like this that bring global cultures and the performing arts to life for our students in such powerful and memorable ways.

 

Safety Reminder: Please remember that everyone is expected to be buzzed in throughout the day. I realize that many of you know each other and holding the door for the next person is polite. However, this poses a security risk. Please DO NOT hold the door open for the next person. Please remind them that everyone must be buzzed in. We must err on the side of safety. Thank you for your cooperation.

 

ECO Action is coming!: We’re excited to announce our second Eco Action Week Eco Action Schedule, February 23-26, 2026, the Wind Derby! We’re inviting families and community members to join us during school hours to help with a fun, hands-on event that brings our lessons to life. We need your help to make this event a success. If you’d like to volunteer, Eco Action Week 2 – Sign Ups

 

2026-2027 Incoming Siblings – If you have an incoming sibling to CHB next school year (2026-27), please email Mara Mazur (MMazur@ by Friday, February 27). Please provide the name of the student, incoming grade and date of birth, as well as the sibling’s name. You will still need to register with the registrar’s office. This information is being collected so the registrar’s office can forecast how many seats will be available after siblings.

 

Donate To MFEE For CHB’s CHANCE TO WIN: To mark their 35th year, the Montclair Fund for Educational Excellence (MFEE) is raising the prize of their Annual Appeal School Lottery! Now, through February 28, when you donate $35 or above to MFEE, you’ll be entered in a lottery to award a $1,750 educational grant to CHB. Two separate $1,750 grants will be awarded for a total of $3,500 in honor of their 35 years! Be sure to “credit” CHB when donating.

MFEE is our town’s local education fund. They support ALL Montclair Public Schools students, teachers, staff, and caregivers through educator grants, inclusive programming, professional development, and more. Donate today, and show that #MontclairMakesUs hopeful for a bright future.

Donate:
https://givebutter.com/c/MontclairMakesUs

 

CHB Spring Fling, March 14, Early Bird Tickets Available Now!: The CHB Spring Fling is our signature adult fundraiser, bringing our school community together for a fun and festive night out. Guests will enjoy great food, games, music, and an exciting tricky tray featuring fantastic baskets to win through a raffle—all while supporting important programs and initiatives at CHB. It’s a night to relax, connect, and give back.

Spring Fling Tickets!

 

Upcoming Events:

Saturday 2/14: Valentine’s Day

Monday 2/16: District Closed

 

Looking Ahead:

Monday 2/23: PTA Meeting

Monday 2/23: ASE Spring session begins

Monday 2/23 – Friday 2/27: Eco Action Week